This is the first time a diesel has been honored with the title since the Green Car Journal began the awards in 2005. The Jetta TDI is powered by a 2.0L, turbocharged, direct-injection engine featuring the latest in emissions control technology that enables it to meet the strict emissions rules in all 50 states.

It also is affordable, starting at $21,990, and is eligible for an income-tax credit.

A jury of environmental and automotive experts selected the â€™09 Jetta TDI from a field of five finalists that included the BMW 335d clean diesel, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Saturn Vue 2-mode hybrid and Smart Fortwo.

BMW and Ford each have two stout turbo-6s in the hunt this year, while Infiniti has one. All five are smooth, extremely refined, reasonably fuel-efficient and dishing up loads of horsepower and torque....More

We call out vehicles with problematic fit-and-finish, materials, ergonomics or unfortunate design choices. Each of these items resulted in points deducted as WardsAuto editors selected the 2016 Wards 10 Best Interiors.